LiveSafe Resources Features Melissa Cantrell as Honoree in the 2023 Tribute to Achievement
CDH Partners is pleased to announce that Melissa Cantrell, CEO and President of CDH Partners, has been named selected as an Honoree for the 2023 LiveSafe Resources Tribute to Achievement. Selected honorees have demonstrated sustained excellence, exemplary achievement and leadership in the community, assisted other women to achieve, and demonstrated qualities that encourage others.
“I am honored to be among the illustrious women recognized in the 2023 LiveSafe Resources Tribute to Achievement. I am committed to continuing to serve our community and to investing in the future of our world. It is about creating an environment in which people can reach their goals, and in which we can all work together to make the world a better place.”
– Melissa Cantrell, CEO of CDH Partners
Cantrell will be recognized at the 38th Annual Tribute to Achievement Event on Friday, March 17, 2023 along with the other honorees. The Tribute to Achievement event strives to raise awareness of LiveSafe Resources’ important programs. Proceeds from this event enable the organization to provide services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and elder abuse. To view the complete list of honorees, visit the Marietta Daily Journal.
About Melissa
Cantrell is a 25-year veteran of the firm and has held a succession of important leadership roles including principal of the Education + Research studio, President, and owner. As the first female executive, Melissa moved the dial to garner more than 50% female ownership and leadership in less than two years in her position at CDH Partners – an often-unheard-of feat in a predominantly male-led industry. With this move, she was able to create a more inclusive culture all while experiencing the disruptive pandemic.
Since taking over the role of CEO, Melissa has created a diverse ownership team and managed 30% of the projects. She also led 15% staff growth, steady increase in revenue, and ensured pay equitability and career paths. Additional goals met were:
- Define corporate values and redefined review processes
- Establish competitive benefits
- Created a leadership and mentoring structure
- Implemented a full-time hybrid work policy
Additionally, the Georgia governor appointed her to the Georgia State Board of Architects and Interior Designers. She is a recognized Author, Speaker, and Thought Leader in the development of Future Ready Schools in the Georgia Education Market, having won multiple design awards in this market segment.
